The Scout.org website uses "cookies", both internal and from third parties. Cookies are small text files placed on your end user device and help us to distinguish you from other users, to enhance your experience on scout.org. If you continue, we'll assume that you are happy to receive cookies on our website. You can change your browser's cookie settings at any time. To find out more about how we use cookies and how to manage your browser settings read our Cookies Policy.

Messengers of Peace: Scouting helps street children in the Democratic Republic of the Congo

1st Jan 2013

KINSHASA – Within the framework of the Messengers of Peace project, the Fédération des Scouts de la République démocratique du Congo (FESCO) launched a new youth program on 6 April 2012. Through this program, the Scout method is used to support street children from a centre known as "Molende na ngai" which means "my perseverance." Today, this centre counts 46 Cubs and 22 Scouts. Their enthusiasm is so compelling that FESCO is now receiving many requests for membership from less affluent areas of Kinshasa.

Since its inception in 1990, FESCO has not had a national youth program for all provincial associations of the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Today, following a visit of the Secretary General of WOSM, Mr. Luc Panissod and the Regional Director, Mr. Frederic Tutu Kama-Kama in May 2011, a change within the NSO has taken place. FESCO now has a new look and its pulse is of a young heart, an organization that has received a breath of fresh air.

This was also made possible by the financial support from Messengers of Peace project. In addition, thanks to that project, two officials of the national team are paid and the rent arrears owed to the “Stade des Martyrs” have been paid. The officials are also grateful for a new computer, a printer and a high capacity copier.

Messengers of Peace is a World Scouting project created to capitalize on the success of the “Gifts for Peace” projects that were run during the centenary year. The Messengers of Peace programme is a 10-year initiative for the 161 member countries of the World Organization of the Scout Movement to involve individual Scouts as well as National Scout Organizations from all WOSM regions in peace-building activities.